JKM Corp is bringing its retro-inspired ninja action game Shadow Gangs Zero to Steam later this month, with the latest trailer offering another look at the 16-bit prequel ahead of its October 27 release. Originally conceived around Neo Geo hardware, Shadow Gangs Zero is designed as a throwback to the classic arcade action games of the 1980s and ’90s while expanding the formula with new characters, stages, co-op and modern refinements.
The new trailer highlights the game’s fast-paced side-scrolling combat, with Dan and Monika cutting through waves of enemies using a combination of close-range attacks, shurikens and ninja magic. The footage also showcases the game’s larger set pieces and varied environments, including ruined cities, neon-lit cyberpunk areas and castles, while giving a look at some of the larger enemies and bosses players will encounter throughout the adventure. The hand-drawn pixel art is particularly prominent, with large character sprites, detailed backgrounds, explosions and plenty of animation helping Shadow Gangs Zero capture the look of a 16-bit arcade game.
Combat isn’t limited to traditional ninja weaponry, either. Both playable characters can transform into more powerful warriors equipped with a katana and machine gun, adding a much heavier approach to the action. Players will also need to learn enemy patterns and make use of their different abilities as they progress through increasingly difficult encounters.
Shadow Gangs Zero will feature 43 levels, six bosses, six mini-bosses and two bonus stages that return with increasing difficulty. The game can be played alone as either Dan or Monika, while local two-player co-op allows both ninjas to take on the Shadow Gangs together. The developers have also removed some of the more restrictive elements associated with classic arcade action, including stage time limits, while adding health pickups and quicker restarts after defeat.
While the Steam release gives modern PC players a way to experience the game, Shadow Gangs Zero is being developed with considerably older hardware in mind. The project has been built around Neo Geo hardware and is also planned for release on Neo Geo, Dreamcast and Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, alongside PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch and Xbox. The project originally grew out of plans for a 16-bit version of Shadow Gangs before becoming a larger game with altered level layouts, additional content, more animation and other changes.
Shadow Gangs Zero is scheduled to launch on Steam on October 27, 2026, giving fans of classic ninja action another opportunity to step into a deliberately old-school arcade-style adventure, while those interested in retro hardware will have several original platforms to look forward to as well.